What Businesses Are Closed On Monday Columbus Day In Philadelphia?

Find out what businesses are closed on Monday Columbus Day in Philadelphia. Get the details to plan your day without surprises.

Columbus Day, also known as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in many places, can make planning your day in Philadelphia a bit tricky. Since it’s on the second Monday of October, people are often unsure about what’s open or closed. Whether you’re running errands, organizing family plans, or just trying to avoid showing up to a business that’s closing for the day, it’s important to know what to expect.

Here’s a quick guide to what’s open and closed in Philly on this day.

The Evolving Meaning of Columbus Day

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a moment to reflect on what Columbus Day (or Indigenous Peoples’ Day) means. For many, this holiday, originally commemorating Christopher Columbus’ arrival in the Americas, has become a time to celebrate Indigenous culture and history. Philadelphia, a city steeped in rich history, mirrors this shift with cultural events and educational opportunities to honor Indigenous communities.

Quick Reference Table

Business Type	Open/Closed	Notes
Post Offices	Closed	No mail delivery
Banks	Closed	ATMs available
Grocery Stores	Open	Regular hours
Restaurants	Open (mostly)	Check for reduced hours
Retail Stores	Open	Some may have sales
Transportation	Modified Schedule	SEPTA runs holiday schedule
Cultural Events	Open	Indigenous Peoples’ Day events

Keep this in mind as we explore how the city operates on this holiday.

Public and Government Offices

If you’re planning to visit a government office, Columbus Day is not your day.

• Federal Offices: As Columbus Day is a federal holiday, expect all federal offices to be closed. This includes:
  • The United States Post Office (no mail delivery).
  • Social Security Administration offices.
• Local Government Offices: Most Philadelphia municipal offices follow federal holiday schedules. That means:
  • City Hall and administrative services will be closed.
  • Courts are not in session, except for emergency matters.

A few years ago, I made the rookie mistake of heading to the post office to send out a package, only to find locked doors. Lesson learned: always check the calendar for federal holidays!

Banks and Financial Institutions

Bank closures can derail your plans if you’re not prepared. Here’s the deal:

• Closed: Major banks like Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank of America observe Columbus Day. However, ATMs and online banking services remain available.
• Credit Unions and Smaller Banks: Many also close their doors, but it’s worth calling ahead to confirm.

Pro Tip: Need to deposit a check or withdraw cash? Use your bank’s mobile app or an ATM to avoid delays.

Retail Stores and Shopping Centers

Good news for shoppers: many stores remain open on Columbus Day, and some even run special sales.

• Open:
  • Large retail chains like Target, Walmart, and Home Depot operate as usual.
  • Grocery stores, including Acme and Giant, will likely follow normal hours.
• Closed or Reduced Hours:
  • Some local businesses and boutique shops may close for the day or adjust their hours, particularly those participating in Indigenous Peoples’ Day observances.

Example: Think of Columbus Day shopping like Sunday shopping. The big players are open, but smaller shops might treat it as a day off. Always check before making the trip!

Restaurants and Cafés

Philadelphia’s vibrant food scene doesn’t take a break for Columbus Day. Most restaurants, cafés, and bars remain open.

• Open:
  • Chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ will operate on regular schedules.
  • Popular spots in Center City, like Reading Terminal Market, also stay open, offering everything from local delicacies to international flavors.
• Closed or Limited Hours:
  • Family-run diners or specialty cafés may close for the day, especially in neighborhoods where Indigenous Peoples’ Day events are prominent.

A few years back, I discovered the joy of a quieter city on Columbus Day. Without the usual hustle and bustle, enjoying a leisurely brunch at a Rittenhouse café felt like a mini retreat.

Transportation

Getting around Philadelphia on Columbus Day is straightforward, but there are some changes to be aware of:

• SEPTA (Public Transit): SEPTA typically runs on a holiday schedule. Expect:
  • Reduced frequency for buses, trolleys, and trains.
  • Regional Rail services may follow a Sunday timetable.
• Parking: Street parking rules may be relaxed in some areas. However, check for signs to avoid tickets.

Pro Tip: Apps like SEPTA’s official app or Google Maps can help you navigate the adjusted schedules with ease.

Events and Activities

Philadelphia celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Day with a variety of events that highlight culture, history, and community. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:

• Cultural Celebrations:
  • Indigenous Peoples’ Day events at local museums and community centers often feature storytelling, dance performances, and educational workshops.
• Outdoor Activities:
  • Parks like Penn Treaty Park host family-friendly gatherings with live music and food trucks.
• Local Festivals:
  • The Reading Terminal Market may hold themed events, like the Scrapple and Apple Festival, showcasing seasonal flavors and Philly favorite.

Personal Tip: Attending these events is not just fun, it’s a meaningful way to connect with Philadelphia’s diverse community.

How to Make the Most of the Day

• Plan Ahead: Verify hours for businesses or services you need.
• Explore Local Culture: Use the day to visit museums, attend events, or enjoy the city’s parks.
• Stay Flexible: With adjusted schedules and closures, a little adaptability goes a long way.

Think of Columbus Day as an opportunity to slow down and savor the city. It’s the perfect day for a long walk along the Schuylkill River Trail or exploring Old City’s historic streets.

Key Takings

• Columbus Day (or Indigenous Peoples’ Day) doesn’t have to be frustrating in Philly, even with some places closed.
• With a bit of planning, you can turn the day into something fun and meaningful.
• Whether you spend it learning about Indigenous cultures, checking out the city’s food scene, or snagging some deals during holiday sales, there’s plenty to do.
• Philly’s rich history and culture make it the perfect spot to enjoy the holiday your way.

Useful Articles:

• Indigenous Peoples Day Weekend in Philly: 16 Things to Do: A curated list of events and activities to celebrate the weekend in Philadelphia. 
• Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day, Philadelphia: Explore how Philadelphia honors Indigenous Peoples’ Day with cultural events and stories. 
• Indigenous Peoples Day and Columbus Day: Learn about the history and significance of both Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Columbus Day. 
• IPD Philly » Indigenous Peoples’ Day Philly Inc: Discover the organization dedicated to promoting Indigenous culture and awareness in Philadelphia. 
• Working on Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Insights on how job policies vary across the U.S. for this holiday.